The blockage of the entrance to the MPK depot on 26th August at 4:30 a.m. is regarded as the symbolic beginning of the wave of trade union activists’ protests in August 1980. In November last year, a contract for the renovation of the old bus of historical importance for Wroclaw was signed. The Jelcz 043 bus, commonly known as ‘cucumber’, will finally get a new life. Its repair has just started under the common supervision of MPK, the Wroclaw University of Technology and the Jelcz factory. Until recently, the exhibit was kept in the Zajezdnia History Centre.
‘Many Wroclaw inhabitants have a fondness for Wroclaw “cucumbers”, so we want to restore as many classic features of this vehicle as possible,’ says the President of MPK Krzysztof Balawejder. ‘We will ensure that all elements – from lacquer to interior finish – reflect the spirit of the legendary Jelcz 043. I think we will succeed because many mechanics who repaired “cucumbers” in the 1970s and 1980s still work for us.’
The historic vehicle will be ready for the anniversary
The scope of work will include the repair of the external upholstery, the addition of new lacquer in ivory and red colours and the restoration of seats and the carpeting. MPK’s mechanics will also repair the chassis and bodywork structure. The ‘cucumber’ is supposed to regain its classic appearance.
The vehicle will be ready in August 2021. Jelcz 043 will take part in next year’s celebration of August 1980.
‘The blockage of the point of departure from the bus depot at ul. Grabiszyńska, where our Centre is located now, took place on 26th August 1980. ‘That was the beginning of the strike that contributed to the formation of the Wroclaw Solidarity,’ adds Marek Mutor, Director of the Zajezdnia History Centre, where the vehicle will be kept after the repair.
On working days, the ‘cucumber’ will transport children from Wroclaw schools to the Depot. On weekends, it will be used by tourists.
